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1540 WADK.com Updates Archives for 2014-08

President In Newport Today

President Barack Obama is expected in Newport today to raise money for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Obama is scheduled to arrive at TF Green Airport after six p.m., then will travel to Seafair, the home of former Nortek CEO Richard Bready.  Only 60 people are expected to attend, with each paying between 15-thousand and 32-thousand-dollars for admission to the exclusive event.  If he remains on schedule, Obama will depart from the state before nine p.m.

Newport Parking Restrictions Today

The Presidents visit will impact parking and traffic in the area. You can expect traffic delays, road closures and detours. The Newport Police Department will have the following parking and traffic restrictions today from noon until 10pm.

 

  • No parking on both sides of Memorial Boulevard from Thames Street to Bellevue Avenue.
  • No parking on Bellevue Avenue from Memorial Boulevard south to East Bowery Street. 
  • No parking on Ocean Avenue between Carroll Avenue and Winans Avenue.

Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed Has New Chief Of Staff

Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed has a new chief of staff.  Thomas Papa will be replacing Thomas Coderre. Coderre was chose by the Obama administration to be the senior advisor at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations.  Papa spent time as legislative agent for the Rhode Island State Association of Fire Fighters and most recently worked as the associate director of the government relations firm F/S Capital Consulting.

Improvements Begin At Newport Historical Society Building

The Newport Historical Society has begun improvements and renovations to its building on Touro Street.  The plans include a new driveway, a new entranceway and reception area, an elevator and research work spaces. The project should be complete some time next year.

King Park Beach Reopened To Swimmers

The Department of Health has recommended the reopening of King Park Beach in Newport to swimmers after water samples showed bacteria levels within acceptable limits.

Newport Parking Restrictions In Effect Tomorrow

The Newport Police Department will have the following parking restrictions on Friday, August 29th, 2014. The parking restrictions will go in effect at 12:00 PM until 10:00 PM on August 29th, 2014.

• There will be no parking posted on Memorial Blvd. both sides from Thames St. to Bellevue Ave. No parking signs will be posted on Thursday, August 28th, 2014. 
• There will be no parking posted on Bellevue Ave. from Memorial Blvd south to East Bowery St. No parking signs will be posted on Thursday, August 28th, 2014. 
• There will be no parking on Ocean Ave. between Carroll Ave. and Winans Ave. 
• Expect to encounter traffic delays, road closures; road detours or intermittent traffic flow.

The parking restriction will be strictly enforced and vehicles parked in these restricted areas will be towed.

The Newport Police Department will be posted on Ocean Ave. to assist residents of the Ocean Ave. area and surrounding areas with traffic access control measures.

Any questions regarding these restrictions can be directed to Sgt. Christopher Hayes at the Newport Police Department at 845-5717 or by e-mail chayes@cityofnewport.com.

Land Sailing Competition Could Be Held In Middletown

Middletown could be hosting a Red Bull land sailing competition at Sachuest Beach.  The October 18th event would have about 40 land sailors competing on 10 teams.  The free event will be open to the public and is expected to draw hundreds of people. The Daily News reports, the permit application is on the agenda for the Town Council’s meeting on Tuesday night.

Newport To Continue Water & Sewer Upgrades

The City of Newport will continue to upgrade the city’s water and sewer systems. According to the Daily News, the City Council awarded more than $3.3 million dollars in contracts last night.  The biggest contract award of $2.42 million was for the project to install new water mains in the city to improve water distribution.

Grant Money To Replace Gas Lanterns At Eisenhower Park

Newport has received a grant from the Department of Environmental Management to upgrade the lighting in Eisenhower Park. New LED lighting will replace the gas lanterns that are currently there.  The new lighting will be more energy efficient and will still have a historic look. 

New Plaza & Restrooms Open At Cliff Walk

The new plaza and restrooms at the Cliff Walk opened yesterday near Forty Steps.  The Daily News reports that the Cliff Walk Commission had been working for more than 12 years toward the installation of permanent restrooms. In addition to the restrooms, there is a new concrete sidewalk and a turn-around area.

President Will Be In Newport Tomorrow

President Obama is scheduled to arrive in Newport tomorrow. He will be attending a fundraiser for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. This will be Obama’s first trip to Rhode Island since 2010.

Group Rallied To Protest Ballot Change

Members of Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling rallied in front of Newport City Hall yesterday to protest the change in the referendum requirements for voter approval of table games at Newport Grand.  A change in legislation by the state House of Representatives and state Senate in June calls for one statewide referendum question on the ballot.  Although the question will be on the state ballot, the votes of Newport residents will be recorded separately on the statewide referendum when the votes are counted.  

Tiverton To Start CyperPatriot Club

The Tiverton School Committee has approved a request to start a CyberPatriot Club. According to the Daily News, the club will teach students how to defend computers against cyber attacks.  The club will give high school students a fun learning experience that could eventually lead to a career in defending computer networks.

Newport Exploring "Adopt A Gaslight" Program

The Newport City Council is looking in to an “Adopt A Gaslight” program.  According to Patch, the council approved a resolution to explore the concept due to limited funds that have failed to keep up routine maintenance and repairs caused by accidents and the toll of salt air on the various metal surfaces.  The program would help subsidize the costs of replacing gas mantles, glass cleaning and other repairs needed to the keep the gaslights operations and part of Newport’s historic streetscapes.

Gist Recommends Three Year Delay To Graduation Testing

The State Education Commissioner, Deborah Gist, has recommended a three year delay to the start of a new test that Rhode Island Students would have to pass to graduate from high school.  After considering numerous objections to the testing, Gist wants to give schools and students enough time to prepare for a new college readiness test adopted this year and to adjust to the new Common Core academic standards. 

King Park Beach Closed To Swimming

The Department of Health has recommended the closure of King Park Beach in Newport to swimming due to high bacteria counts. Officials will continue to monitor the water quality and recommend re-opening when the area is safe for swimming.

Opponents To Newport Casino Plan Rally

Members of Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling plan to rally this morning at 11am in front of City Hall to protest a change in the referendum requirements for voter approval of table games at Newport Grand.  According to the Daily News, the city’s Canvassing Board is planning to meet today to decertify their request for a local ballot question on the casino proposal. The move comes after legislation approved by the state House of Representatives and state Senate on June 22 calls for one statewide referendum question on the state ballot, and for the question not to be duplicated on a local ballot. The votes of Newport residents on the statewide referendum will be recorded separately when votes are counted. Opponents argue that the state Constitution clearly calls for two referenda on proposed casinos, one statewide and one in the host community. Passage of both is required for an expansion of gambling to move forward.

Portsmouth Looking At Revenue Opportunities

 

The Portsmouth Town Council will be looking into new revenue recommendations.  The Daily News reports that the recommendations are part of a report to the council by the New Revenue Working Group. The report focuses on four areas where fees could be collected or increased to help cover the costs of services.  Those include Beach fees, Harbor moorings, adjustments to the Motor vehicle tax and charging for ambulance services. The Town Council is planning a meeting on the recommendations as alternative means of raising revenue before the end of the year. 

RIPTA Bus Driver Facing Charges

A RIPTA bus driver is facing charges for road rage after an incident involving a woman in her car using her cell phone.  According to WLNE, Police say 57-year-old Edward Howell of Tiverton confronted a driver who was using her cell phone in her car. They say he tried to open her car door and pounded on the car roof.  Officers say he was calling her an idiot, like the driver who hit and injured his nephew. Howell is charged with vandalism and disorderly conduct.  He was put on administrative leave.

Search For Missing Girl Continues

Police are continuing to search for a missing 14-year-old West Warwick girl.  Khia Lake was last seen by her mother last Wednesday, and police say they are no closer to finding her.  Police have heard from witnesses who may have seen her walking in the area of West Warwick Avenue that evening.  Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact West Warwick police.
 

No Indictments For Former Brown Students

A couple of former Brown University football players who had been accused of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old woman will not be facing charges.  A Providence County grand jury has declined to indict the young men in connection with the alleged incident in April.  The pair were booted from campus after the accusations were made, and were later removed from the football team as well.  The female Providence College student claimed that the two young men carried her from a bar and she awoke in a dorm room in the midst of a sexual assault.

Bristol Man Injured In Missouri Boat Racing Accident

A Bristol man is in critical condition after a boat racing accident in Missouri.  Michael Fiore, 44, of Bristol, was racing a catamaran on the Lake of the Ozarks and lost control at high speed due to wind interference. The boat became airborne and flipped over twice before hitting the water. Fiore was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital and is in critical condition.

CVS To Offer Narcan Without A Prescription

CVS Caremark is planning to offer Narcan without a prescription at all 60 of its Rhode Island Pharmacies.  It is expected to be in the stores by the end of the month. Walgreens launched a similar program at its Rhode Island pharmacies last year. Narcan has been successful in reversing the effects of opiate overdoses. State health officials have reported 127 overdose deaths this year and have called the problem and epidemic.

Westerly Man Charged With Child Abuse

A Westerly man is facing a charge of aggravated felony assault in an alleged child abuse incident.  Police say the injured one-year-old child was living in the home of Maurice Bell when he suffered severe head trauma last month.  The child is being treated for bruising of the brain, and doctors believe it involves old and new injuries.  Bell claims the baby was hurt by falling off a couch.  He's free on bond, and is ordered to have no contact with the child.

RICC May Address 38 Studios Lawsuit

A lawsuit over Curt Schilling's failed video game company 38 Studios is expected to be considered by the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation today.  The panel may head into executive session to consider issues related to the suit.  The state filed the lawsuit in an effort to hold those accountable who developed the failed deal.  The corporation went into executive session to discuss the lawsuit during their June meeting in an effort to keep their legal strategy from becoming public

Search Continues For Missing Girl

The search continues for a 14-year-old West Warwick girl who has been missing since last week.  Police say Khia Lake was last seen Wednesday night and was reported missing by her mother on Thursday.  Search dogs were brought in to help with the search yesterday, but the girl was not located.  Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact West Warwick Police.

Saratoga Has Left Newport

The Saratoga aircraft carrier is no longer a fixture in Newport.  The hulking ship was decommissioned in 1994 and has been anchored in Newport since 1998.  Yesterday the ship departed on a final journey to Texas to be dismantled and scrapped.  Several efforts to have the ship donated and converted into a museum over the years have failed.  The ship has been parked at Naval Station Newport on the Navy's disposal list since 2010.

Preservation Society Cited For Workplace Violations

The Preservation Society of Newport has been cited by federal workplace safety inspectors for allegedly exposing workers to lead based paint and potentially fatal falls.  OSHA has proposed over $50,000 in fines for the violations. According to the AP, the Preservation Society said in a written statement that it has an outstanding safety record and has never been cited before. They will be working with OSHA to make sure that employees all receive training on how to deal with lead paint and resolve the problems. 

Roger's High Names Interim Principal

Rogers High School has an interim high school principal.  The Daily News reports that Gerald Foley, a former principal for Johnston High School and North Kingstown High School, will replace Principal James Nelson who resigned to take a teaching position at Mount Pleasant High School. Foley is expected to remain on the job until the search for a new principal is complete.

Newport Zoning Board To Schedule Special Meeting For Latest "Welcome Center" Petition

The Newport Zoning Board of Review will be meeting Monday at 7pm at the School Administration Building.  On the agenda, The Board will be scheduling a “special meeting” date to hear a petition by the Preservation Society of Newport to modify an existing special use permit by constructing a single-story “Welcome Center” structure at The Breakers.

RI Peace Workers Arrive In Ferguson

Four peace workers from Providence are now on the ground in Ferguson, Missouri to offer their services.  The four are from the Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence arrived in Ferguson yesterday.  The four then headed directly into the area where the violence broke out, offering support and nonviolence training.  The four left Providence by car on Wednesday, driving around 20 hours to arrive in Ferguson yesterday.  The group also hope to meet with police officials during their stay.

USS Saratoga Departs Today

The USS Saratoga will be departing Newport this morning. An update on the Naval Station Newport Facebook Page says that the safety brief is complete and the ship should be passing Ft. Adams around 10:45am. This is an estimated time and if all goes smoothly she could move away from the pier early.

Improvements To America's Cup Ave Could Begin Soon

Improvements to America’s Cup Avenue could begin later this year.  According to the Daily News, the bidding process started yesterday to make America’s Cup Avenue friendlier to pedestrian, bicyclists and those with disabilities.  The work will include new crosswalks and a marked bicycle lane.  The project is expected to help local businesses by making it easier for people to get around the area.

Tiverton Man Sentenced On Gun & Drug Charges

A Tiverton man has been sentenced to serve 5 years in a federal prison.  Ian Andrade, 36, was arrested in November of last year on drug and weapons charges after the police found a loaded gun, cash and packages of cocaine in his car. Andrade will be on supervised probation for three years after the completion of his prison term.

Narragansett Tribe Not Getting Navy Land

The Narragansett Indian tribe may be out of the running for over 200 acres of land in Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth.  The land is being made available through the federal Base Realignment and Closure process.  The Daily News reports the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs was not willing to assume all the risk associated with taking over the land.  Local officials are looking forward to getting things back on track to reuse the properties.

The Final Day For Mail Ballots Is Today

Today is the final day for voters to apply for mail ballots for the upcoming September 9th primary.  The forms need to be returned to the applicant’s local board of canvassers no later than 21 days before the primary.

Ethics Commission To Investigate Beach Concession Contracts

The Ethics Commission is going to investigate whether Representative Peter Palumbo violated ethics rules by bidding on a contract for beach concessions. Palumbo was the high bidder for the contract but backed out leaving former Democratic Party Chairman David Caprio as the next highest bidder. There is also an investigation going on by the State police.

Details Emerge About Shot Suspect

More details are emerging about the man who remains hospitalized with serious injuries after being shot by a Warwick police officer.  Kenneth Cunningham was wanted for violating probation in a California murder case.  It turns out he was also wanted in Rhode Island on several outstanding warrants.  Cunningham allegedly fired first at police Monday before he was shot.

Three Rescued From Boat In Newport

The Coast Guard and the Newport Harbormaster helped a disabled vessel with three people on board after an engine overheated off the coast of Newport yesterday. The boat was near Fort Adams yesterday morning when the engine started to smoke. Three people were transferred to the harbormaster’s boat and no injuries were reported.  The boat was towed into Newport Harbor.

RIPTA Fall Service Changes Effective Aug. 23rd

RIPTA has announced that its Fall service changes will take place starting August 23rd.  The service changes are to accommodate seasonal changes and passenger use. There have been additional trips added to the Newport/Providence and Salve Regina routes. Passengers are encouraged to check new schedules for how these service changes may affect them. www.ripta.com

Man Wanted In California Shot In Warwick

A man was shot multiple times yesterday after exchanging gunfire with Warwick Police.  Kenneth Cunningham, 39, was in critical condition after he was shot.  Cunningham is wanted in California for a parole violation in a murder case. The incident began in the Oakland Beach area and while police were pursuing the truck that Cunningham was driving, he pulled out a gun, pointed at the officers and gunfire was exchanged.

Yachting Center Wants Violations Bound Together

The Newport Yachting Center has requested that all its pending noise violations be bound together for one Municipal Court trial that is scheduled for September. According to the Daily News, the Yachting Center wants to bundle them together so that they could minimize the number of times that expert witnesses would have to come to Newport for trials.

Rhode Island Unemployment Not Highest

Rhode Island no longer has the unwanted distinction of being the state with the highest unemployment rate.  The state's jobless rate has dropped to seven-point-seven-percent, a two tenths drop from June.  Mississippi takes over as the state with the highest unemployment rate in the country, checking in at eight-percent in July.  The state with the lowest unemployment rate in the country is North Dakota at two-point-eight percent.

Former Congressman St. Germain Dies

Rhode Island is mourning the death of former Congressman Fernande St. Germain.  The Woonsocket native passed away over the weekend in Newport at the age of 86.  St. Germain represented Rhode Island's first district on Congress from 1960 until 1989.  Current first district Congressman David Cicilline says St. Germain was a soldier, accomplished lawyer and distinguished public servant whose legacy will benefit the state for years to come.

Navy Salute To Summer Concert And Fireworks Returns

The Navy Salute to Summer Concert and Fireworks returns to the lawn of Dewey Field on board Naval Station Newport this Saturday.  The concert will feature the music of Navy Band Northeast and Wayz & Means. The concert begins at 5, fireworks should begin around 9:15.  For more information check out the Naval Station Newport Rhode Island fan page on facebook. https://www.facebook.com/NAVSTANewport

Tiverton Crossings Public Informational Meeting To Be Held Tomorrow

Carpionato Properties will be holding a public informational meeting tomorrow night in the Tiverton High School Auditorium.  The meeting will outline the plan for the proposed Tiverton Crossings project. According to the Daily News, the project includes 454,000 square feet of retail, residential and office space. The property for the proposed site is zoned residential and will require zoning changes from the Town Council.

Touro Synagogue Holds Annual Reading of Washington Letter

Touro Synagogue held its annual reading of George Washington’s historic letter “To the Hebrew Congregation at Newport” yesterday afternoon.  The letter was written by Washington 224 years with the message of religious freedoms and tolerance as one of the foundations that the country was built upon.

New Push To Ban Smoking At Beaches

There's a renewed push to ban smoking at all public beaches on Aquidneck Island.  Officials say thousands of cigarette butts are picked up from the beaches each year, and it needs to stop.  In order for such a ban to be put into effect, each community on the Island must approve an ordinance.  The group Clean Ocean Access is hoping to have a ban in place before the beach season begins next summer.

Fools' Rules Regatta Held In Jamestown

Jamestown held it’s 37th annual Fools’ Rules regatta yesterday. The Regatta showcases boats built with non-nautical items and many of the boats have specific themes.  The homemade boat competition takes place at Jamestown’s Town Beach each summer.

RI Social Services Getting Federal Funds

Rhode Island social service agencies will be getting nearly $681,000 in funds to help families in need with emergency food, rent and utility payments.  A little more than 60% of that money will go to Providence with the remainder going to the “State Set-Aside Committee” which can award the money to other communities throughout the state.  The Federal funds are provided through FEMA’s emergency food and shelter program.

Eight Beaches Are Closed To Swimming

The Department of Health has recommended the closure of eight beaches.  Barrington Town Beach, Easton's Beach in Newport, Goddard Memorial State Park Beach and Conimicut Point Beach in Warwick, Peabody's Beach in Middletown, Scarborough State Beach (North and South) in Narragansett, Third Beach in Middletown, and Warren Town Beach in Warren are closed to swimming due to high bacteria counts. Officials will continue to monitor the water quality and recommend re-opening when the area is safe for swimming.

State Unemployment Rate Drops

Rhode Island's unemployment rate is slightly lower.  The state Department of Labor and Training says Rhode Island's jobless rate was seven-point-seven percent in July.  That's two-tenths of a percent lower than June's numbers.  The state gained 12-hundred jobs during the month, with the state labor force currently standing at 558-thousand people.

 

More Bodies Found From Funeral Home

Authorities say three bodies found in a Johnston storage facility are linked to the Pennine Funeral Home on Federal Hill in Providence.  Police were called to United Storage on Putnam Pike and discovered two badly decomposed adult bodies in coffins.  The body of an infant was found in a small container.  Documents with the bodies linked them to the embattled funeral home.  Authorities discovered nine bodies at the funeral home last month, including one of a baby who died in 2001.

Police Investigating 5 Car Crash In Charlestown

Police are investigating a five car crash that happened yesterday afternoon in Charlestown. The accident happened on Route 1 near East Beach Road just after 4pm.  There were no serious injuries and there has been no word on what caused the crash.

Woman Sentenced For Cocaine Trafficking

A Providence woman is receiving four-years in prison for her role in a narcotics trafficking conspiracy.  Ashley Sekator-Graham previously pleaded guilty to charges that she participated in a cocaine and crack distribution network.  Sekator-Graham and her husband Damon Graham admit that they sold drugs and kept them at a home and a storage unit in Narragansett.  In addition to drugs, police found around 90-thousand-dollars in cash, pistols and ammunition.

Owners Of Cleaning Company Have Been Arrested

Two Fall River women, the owners of A Magic Touch cleaning company have been arrested.  Jaqueline Maloney, 26, and Kortnie Vickery, 26, have been charged with stealing items from homes they were working in. Middletown Police report that the women pawned jewelry that was stolen from homes they were hired to clean for cash at several local pawn shops throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The investigation is ongoing and there may be additional victims in the Aquidneck Island area. Anyone who had hired the company in the past and has discovered items missing from their homes should notify their local police department.

Man Rescued Off Beach In Charlestown

A New York man has been rescued from surf with waves as high as 12 feet off the coast of Charlestown.  Michael Novak, 55, of South Salem New York was about 400 feet off shore on a boogie board after being caught in rip currents while swimming at Blue Shutters Town Beach.  Novak’s wife made the call to  authorities to get him help. The beach had been closed because of the bad weather.

Former Cop Guilty Of Cyberstalking

A former Barrington police sergeant is avoiding prison by pleading guilty to charges related to cyberstalking.  Joseph Andreozzi of Pawtucket was sentenced to a one-year suspended prison term and probation.  Andreozzi was charged with domestic cyberstalking after sending threatening text messages to his former wife.  The 20-year veteran of the Barrington police force resigned his position this week.

Warwick Beach Closed To Swimming

The Rhode Island Department of Health has recommended that swimmers avoid Conimicut Point Beach in Warwick because of high bacteria counts.  It will reopen when the counts have returned to acceptable levels.

Torrential Rains Cause Localized Flooding

The flood waters have subsided across Rhode Island after downpours caused serious local flooding.  Some areas of the state received more than four inches of rain yesterday, with the highest amount coming in Cranston.  Quickly rising water left many roads impassible until the storm drains could get caught up with the heavy flow.  No injuries or deaths are reported as a result of the flooding.

Three Arraigned For Highway Shooting

Three men are being held on high bails following their arraignment on charges that they opened fire on another driver on the highway.  The shooting occurred this past weekend on Interstate-95 in Providence.  The driver of the other vehicle tells police that he was driving to work when the car carrying the three men opened fire on him.  The man was not struck, but there were three bullet holes in the driver side door.

Shuttered Bar Seeks To Reopen

The owners of the Three-Dollar Bar on Federal Hill in Providence are seeking to reopen.  The bar was shut down last month after a man was killed during a fight in their rear parking lot.  The order was given after the state Board of Licenses learned that bar staff witnessed the fight and did not call police or seek to intervene.  The sides made their arguments before a hearing officer yesterday.

One Strike Law Passed For Adult Clubs

It's one strike and you're out for adult entertainment clubs in Providence.  A newly enacted measure allows the Board of Licenses to revoke the license of strip clubs where the owners are grossly negligent.  Examples of this conduct would be allowing prostitution or minors inside a club.  Mayor Angel Tavaras says this will allow swift action against those who would exploit children in these clubs.

Middletown Applies For Stormwater Management System Grant

Middletown has applied for a grant to pay for a new stormwater management system at Middletown High School.  The system would help clean up rainwater runoff that is flowing into drinking water supplies and would also help limit swimming bans at area beaches. If the grant money is awarded there will be a public meeting to explain the project details.

Police Seek Bank Robbery Suspect

Police and the FBI are looking for a suspect who committed an armed robbery at a Bank of America branch in Lincoln.  Police say the man walked into the Smithfield Avenue bank yesterday afternoon and pulled out a handgun, demanding cash.  The man grabbed an undisclosed amount of cash and fled the scene on foot.  The suspect was captured on video, but used a black mask and sunglasses to hide his identity.

Tiverton Police Looking For Break In Suspect

Tiverton Police are looking for Nicholas Gonzalez, 35, of Fall River.  Police believe Gonzalez is a suspect for a vehicle break in. Gonzalez is described as 5ft 6inches tall and weighs around 150 pounds with brown hair.  His last known address was 2000 Bay Street in Fall River. Anyone with information is being asked to contact the Tiverton Police. (401) 625-6717

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiverton-Police-Department/438443289611211?rf=191106960908242#!/438443289611211/photos/a.438460902942783.1073741827.438443289611211/568695489919323/?type=1&theater

State Receives Education Grant

The Rhode Island Department of Education is receiving a grant to help expand the use of technology in state schools.  The 100-thousand-dollar grant comes from the nonprofit the Learning Accelerator.  The California based organization will help the state to deliver blended learning, which is when technology is introduced into the traditional classroom setting.  The funds will not be used for equipment purchases, instead they will be used to help state schools to use computers to enhance classroom instruction.

Newport Police Department's 13th Annual National Night Out Against Crime

The Newport Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Division will be holding their 13th Annual National Night Out Against Crime.  The event will be held on Easton’s Beach this Thursday from 4pm-6pm in conjunction with the Newport Recreation Departments Children’s Night. There will be information on bike safety, child car seat safety inspection information, gun safety as well as child I.D. kits.   The dunk tank will be back again with Mayor Harry Winthrop along with several Newport Police Officers and Newport Firefighters making an appearance at the dunk tank.  At the end of the night there will be a drawing for three sets of bicycles with helmets and locks.

Cost Of Single Family Home Drops

The average cost of a single family home in Rhode Island is on the decline.  The Rhode Island Association of Realtors says the median cost of a home in June was 230-thousand-dollars.  That's a four-percent decrease from June of last year.  On the positive side, the number of foreclosure and short sales was down significantly in the first half of the year. 

 

2 Injured In Motorcycle Crash On Pell Bridge

A 57 year old man suffered head injuries after his motorcycle skidded out of control as he and another rider approached the downtown exit of the Pell Bridge yesterday afternoon.  The man with the head injuries is in serious condition and the second motorcyclist, who is 53, was treated for minor injuries. Both men are from Connecticut and neither was wearing a helmet.

Man Stabbed At Tribal Annual Meeting

There was a stabbing at the Narragansett Indian Tribe’s annual meeting. Andrew Smith, 37, was stabbed in the chest after an altercation Saturday night. He was taken to the hospital with a stab wound to his left chest, damaging one of his lungs.  A criminal investigation is being conducted by the Narragansett Indian Tribe Police Department.

Warwick Teen Drowns In Exeter

A Warwick teenager is being identified as the victim of an apparent drowning in Exeter.  State environmental police say 19-year-old Jeremiah Zarty was swimming in Browning Mill Pond with friends when he submerged and did not surface.  The friends were able to locate Zarty and tried to administer CPR, but he was pronounced dead a short time later.  An autopsy is scheduled for today, but officials do not believe there is anything suspicious involved the death.

Free Voter ID Event In Portsmouth Tomorrow

This year, poll workers will be asking voters to show a current and valid photo ID when they vote at their polling places.  Tomorrow the Secretary of State’s office will be hosting a voter ID event at Atria Aquidneck Place in Portsmouth where the public can obtain a free voter ID.  The event will be held from 11am-1pm. Voter ID’s can also be obtained for free at the Secretary of State’s Office.

Victory Day Openings and Closings

Local and State offices are closed today in honor of Victory Day.  Post offices will be open, libraries and banks are closed. RIPTA will be operating on the holiday schedule and the Jamestown and Portsmouth transfer stations are closed today.  There will be no trash or recycling pick up today in Newport, Middletown or Tiverton. Those services will be delayed one day for the rest of the week.

Beach Attendance Is Up This Year

It's been a good year so far for Rhode Island's state beaches.  State officials say that beach attendance through July is well ahead of the numbers for the same period one year ago.  State environmental management officials say the increase is a bit of a surprise, especially since the Fourth of July weekend was largely a washout.  Officials speculate that the fewer number of days with oppressive heat and humidity may be driving up this year's numbers.

The Charles W. Morgan Is Back In Mystic

The last surviving ship from America’s 19th century whaling fleet is back home.  The Charles W. Morgan returned to Mystic Seaport this week after a three month journey along the southern coast of New England.  It had not left Mystic since arriving there in 1941.

Rhode Island Mall Development Planned

Plans are being formulated to bring Rhode Island's first indoor shopping mall back to life.  The owners of Rhode Island Mall in Warwick are planning to transform the facility into the state's first outlet mall.  The main portion of the mall has been closed since 2011, but original tenant Sears remains, along with several big box retailers in stand alone buildings.  A partnership of developers bought the property for 38-million-dollars and hope to begin construction next year.

Federal Hill Bar Loses Liquor License

The Three Dollar Bar on Federal Hill in Providence no longer has a liquor license.  City licensing officials made the decision after learning that bar employees may have watched a deadly beating take place in a rear parking lot and didn't stop it.  Jonathan Stack of Glocester died three days after being beaten with a piece of wood on July 23rd.  The city's public safety commissioner says nobody from the bar called police to report the fight.

State Watchdog Group Files Complaint Over Beach Concessions

Common Cause Rhode Island, the states government watchdog group, has filed a complaint over state Representative Peter Palumbo’s bid to host concessions at three state beaches.  Palumbo was a high bidder for a 5 year contract last year, but he backed out, leaving Democratic Party Chairman David Caprio as the highest bidder. State Police are also investigating the contracts.

Rabid Fox Found And Killed In South Kingstown

A rabid fox in South Kingstown attacked two people within a few hours yesterday and had traveled from Albro Lane to the YMCA on Broad Rock Road.  South Kingstown Police and the DEM conducted a search and were able to locate and kill the fox. There was no word on the condition of the people that had been attacked.

Judge Dismisses Ochre Point Neighborhood Association Appeal

The Preservations Society of Newport County and the Bellevue Ochre Point Neighborhood Association have been at odds on a proposed visitors center at The Breakers. The Daily News reports that yesterday a Superior Court Judge dismissed a lawsuit that the Neighborhood Association had filed to appeal a January decision by the Newport Zoning Board Of Review. The zoning board had issued the Preservation Society a certificate of appropriateness for a welcome center at The Breakers. The proposed welcome center would provide simple refreshment services and restrooms for the hundreds of thousands of people that visit the site annually.

State Unemployment Cap Remains The Same

Rhode Island residents receiving unemployment benefits will not see any increase in their maximum benefits in the new fiscal year.  Officials say this year's rate is again 566-dollars per beneficiary, and 707-dollars for those with more than five dependants.  That's the same rate that has been in place since 2011, when the legislature made changes in response to the unemployment trust fund running out of money.

Capping Of Coventry Landfill Set

The Coventry landfill has been closed for almost 40 years, but efforts to cap it appear finally ready to take place.  A major project is now underway that seeks to prevent hazardous materials dumped at the landfill from contaminating groundwater.  The cost of the project is expected to be around six-million-dollars, with Coventry and several companies picking up the tab.  The landfill accepted household and hazardous waste for decades before closing in 1975.

13 Year Old Missing Girl Found Safe

The 13 year old disabled girl who went missing for a second time was found safe at her mother’s home in West Greenwich.  Nadia Cosper is now back at the May Center School for Brain Injury and Related Disorders in Brockton where she has been living. Police have not released any details on how she was able to get from Brockton to Rhode Island.

Subpoenas To State Lawmakers Withdrawn

Rhode Island state lawmakers are no longer the subject of subpoenas in the 38 Studios lawsuit.  The law firm representing defendants in the suit over Curt Schilling's failed video game company has withdrawn the subpoena served on a lawmaker over the deal.  The lawyers also say there will be no more subpoenas served on state lawmakers in the case.  The lawyers are not saying what led to the change.

Charlestown Is Getting Red Light Cameras

Charlestown will be getting a red light camera installed at an intersection where a 27 year old man was struck and killed. In May 2010, Colin Foote was killed when the motorcycle he was riding was struck at the intersection of Route 1 and West Beach Road. There will be a warning period of 15 days when the cameras are first installed. After that, it will cost drivers $85 to run a red light. The ticket will be mailed home to drivers.

Assault Probed Near Woody Allen Filming

A man is facing charges after he allegedly assaulted two security guards at the Providence set of a Woody Allen movie.  Police say the unidentified 34-year-old man grabbed a female security guard's wrists, then struck another guard who tried to help.  The suspect was eventually subdued with the help of bystanders and charged with felony assault and simple assault.  He was also taken to the hospital for treatment of a cut on his head.

Warwick Girl Goes Missing Again

A 13-year-old Warwick girl with a brain injury is missing for the second time this summer.  Nadia Cosper walked away from the May Institute in Brockton, Massachusetts Sunday and has not been seen since.  She was last seen getting into an older sedan, possibly a Toyota Corolla or a Camry.  Cosper went missing for a few days in June and was later found safe in Pawtucket.

Tiverton Police Issue Reminder After Multiple Break-Ins

Tiverton police have received reports of 20 vehicle break-ins and one vehicle theft over the past week.  They are reminding residents never to leave valuables inside your car, or at the very least keep them our of sight. Police have not yet released information on any suspects or arrests. Anyone that may have witnessed one of the incidents or any suspicious activity is being asked to contact the Tiverton Police Department.

Subpoenas Coming In 38 Studios Case

Rhode Island's House Speaker is warning fellow lawmakers that some state representatives will be receiving subpoenas related to 38 Studios litigation.  Speaker Nicholas Mattiello says one representative has already been served, and more are expected soon.  Mattiello anticipates members who voted on the job creation bill that provided 85-million-dollars in loan guarantees for 38 Studios will likely be subpoenaed as well.  He says any representative receiving a subpoena should contact his office to discuss legal representation.

Discover Newport Receives Pinnacle Award

Discover Newport has been named one of the best Northeast Convention & Visitors Bureaus by Successful Meetings magazine and has received a 2014 Pinnacle Award.  The 2014 Pinnacle Awards are the mark of excellence for meeting destinations, hotels and conference centers. The awarded organizations have done an outstanding job servicing their meetings, incentive travel programs, trade shows and conventions during the year.

URI Quarterback Arrested In Maryland

University of Rhode Island quarterback Luke Casey is in hot water following his recent arrest in Maryland.  Casey was arrested last Friday at an all day concert in Columbia, Maryland on charges of second degree assault, disorderly conduct and possession of false identification.  URI has suspended the redshirt freshman indefinitely because of the arrest.  The incident occurred at the Mad Decent Block Party, where two people died and around 20 others were sickened by apparent drug overdoses.

RI Ranked Least Partisan State

Rhode Island is ranked as the least partisan state according to a new report from “Measuring American Legislatures”. California tops the list as having the most polarized legislature in the nation with Colorado coming in second. The report determines the rankings based on the ideological split between Democrats and Republicans.

RI Gas Prices Continue Steady Decline

Rhode Island gasoline prices are continuing their steady decline, and are at their lowest level since April.  AAA Southern New England says a gallon of self serve regular gas is three-dollars and 60-cents.  That's down four-cents in the last week and 14-cents lower than a month ago, but are still ten-cents a gallon higher than the national average. 

Health Department Screening Newborns For SCID

The state has expanded its program of infant screening. The Health Department began screening all newborns for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID). The disease causes dangerously low levels of white blood cells that protect the body against infection.  The testing began on Friday.

Portsmouth Police Officer Hit By Alleged Drunk Driver

A Portsmouth police officer was send to the hospital after his parked cruiser was hit by an alleged drunk driver.  Bianca Jannetta, 24, of Barrington, was placed under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence. She will be arraigned in court this morning. The officer was treated and release from Newport hospital. The accident is under investigation by the State Police.

Man Dead In Newport Hit And Run

A man is dead and a woman is facing charges after a hit and run incident in Newport.  Police say the unidentified man was stumbling on the side of Admiral Kalbfus Road when he was struck and killed Saturday night.  The driver did not stay at the scene, but 33-year-old Jessica Gosdoski of Oceanside, New York later turned herself in to Newport Police.  She's free on ten-thousand-dollars bond after being charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.

Voter Registration Deadline For The Primary Is August 10th

The secretary of state is reminding voters that the deadline to register to vote in the September 9th primary is August 10th. You can download registration forms from the secretary of state’s website. www.Sos.ri.gov  State law requires voters to register at least 30 days ahead of the primary. 

Jazz Festival Wraps Up 60th Anniversary With Big Name Performers

The Newport Jazz Festival closed out yesterday with some big names hitting the main stage. Bobby McFerrin and David Sanborn were among those who performed. Festival founder George Wein also performed with his Newport All Stars. This year marked the 60th Anniversary of the festival. The Newport Jazz festival was the first outdoor jazz festival and has hosted some of the most famous acts in jazz.

Newport Jazz Festival Begins Today

The Newport Jazz Festival begins today. The three day festival will fill three stages and will consist of fourty-five sets of great jazz. Get the schedule of performances, information on the venues and parking by going to the festival website.

 

http://www.newportjazzfest.org/

Campaign Finance Updates

Angel Tavaras raised over 400-thousand-dollars for his run for governor in the second quarter of the year.  Most of the money raised by Tavaras during the period was from private donors, with around 17-thousand-dollars coming from political action committees.  The Tavaras campaign says the Providence mayor spent 445-thousand-dollars in the quarter.  He has over one-million-dollars in cash on hand as heading into the Democratic primary stretch run. 

 

Gubernatorial candidate Ken Block has a financial edge over Republican opponent Allan Fung. The filings made by both candidates with the Board of Elections show that Block finished the quarter that ended June 30th with more than a half-million dollars in his campaign account. Fung had $364,000 in his account.

President Will Stop In Newport

Newport will be part of a Northeast trip for President Obama.  The President is expected to attend a fundraising event at the end of August. The Obama’s are scheduled for a vacation on Martha’s Vineyard from August 9th to the 24th.

Police Make Large Marijuana Bust

A routine traffic stop by Rhode Island State Police turns into a large marijuana bust.  Police say they pulled over a car for traffic violations on Interstate-95 in Warwick and discovered seven pounds of marijuana inside.  Charged in the case are two men from New York City, Amalfis Medina and Francisco Pena of the Bronx.  Both men are being held without bail on charges of marijuana possession with intent to deliver.

Warren Town Beach Open

State health officials have recommended that the town beach in Warren be reopened to swimming.  The water quality tests show bacteria levels have returned to within acceptable limits.

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